Samar Khallouf, Regional Sales Manager, Congnosec

Samar Khallouf, Regional Sales Manager, Congnosec

What would you describe as your most memorable achievement?

One of the turning points in my career was when I decided to change industries. I saw the potential of the IT market and believed that my skillset would be well adapted to the needs of the sector. As with any big decision, it wasn’t without its risks, but looking back now, I am glad I made the switch!

What first made you think of a career in technology?

The IT market, particularly here in the Middle East, is a very dynamic market that requires individuals to constantly grown and update their skillsets. This means that there are constantly new challenges which if addressed can turn into new opportunities.

What style of management philosophy do you employ with your current position?

As a Regional Sales Manager, I am in charge of a large territory and am therefore dependent on the support and commitment of my team. Believing in the abilities of your team members and presenting them with opportunities to demonstrate their strengths is vital to success. At the end of the day, I believe that success is all about team work.

What do you think will be the hot technology talking point of 2016?

Through the start of the year alone it has been evident that 2016 is the year of IT security. We have seen a number of high profile attacks carried out against prominent regional organisations and these attacks are making businesses reassess their security posture and better leverage both technologies and resources.

How do you deal with stress and unwind outside of the office?

I believe in balancing the mental challenges of the professional life by indulging in sports and other physical challenges on my personal time.

If you could go back and change one career decision, what would it be?

I believe my decision to change industries was the best move for my career and the only change I would make in retrospect is to have taken that decision earlier.

 

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